SAN FRANCISCO, March 21, 2011 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ — Comic-Con International (Comic-Con), the parent company of WonderCon, today released the much anticipated program schedule for the event, which will be held Friday through Sunday, April 1–3, at Moscone Center in San Francisco.

The popular convention features every major comic book publisher, as well as major Hollywood movie studios and stars of comics, movies, and television.

“This year’s lineup is pretty spectacular,” commented David Glanzer, WonderCon’s Director of Marketing and Public Relations. “Programming is always at the heart of our shows, and I think this year’s slate will prove to be among the most exciting yet.”

Originally considered a regional show for Northern California, in recent years WonderCon has followed her sister event, the San Diego Comic-Con, in becoming a full-fledged national show attracting attendees and media from all over the country.

Hollywood has a major presence at WonderCon this year as well, joining the action with an exclusive peek at Green Lantern with stars Ryan Reynolds, Blake Lively and Peter Sarsgaard; a Cowboys & Aliens discussion with director Jon Favreau; a special presentation on the movie Immortals featuring Henry Cavill (the new Superman) and Kellan Lutz; and appearances by V’s Elizabeth Mitchell, Priest’s Paul Bettany, Super’s Rainn Wilson, Human Target’s Mark Valley, and Breaking In’s Christian Slater.

WonderCon, one of the country’s best comics and popular arts conventions, is part of Comic-Con International (CCI), a nonprofit educational organization dedicated to creating awareness of, and appreciation for, comics and related popular art forms. The organization achieves its mission primarily through the presentation of conventions and events that celebrate the historic and ongoing contribution of comics to art and culture. In addition to San Francisco–based WonderCon each spring, CCI organizes San Diego Comic-Con each summer (the world’s largest comics convention of its kind) and San Francisco’s Alternative Press Expo (APE) each fall. On the web: WonderCon.org, Facebook.com/wondercon, Twitter.com/wondercon.

Impressive list of special guests includes Kirkman, Levitz, Quesada and Speed McNeil

San Francisco – WonderCon, one of the country’s best comics and popular arts conventions, will open its 2011 attendee registration at 9:00 AM PST on Wednesday, December 1 at www.comic-con.org/wc. Additionally, WonderCon has announced its first slate of special guests for its 25th anniversary show. Robert Kirkman (writer, The Walking Dead, Haunt), Paul Levitz (past president and publisher of DC Comics), Joe Quesada (editor-in-chief, Marvel Comics), Carla Speed McNeil (writer/artist, Finder), are among the 20-plus newly announced special guests from the worlds of comics, fantasy, and horror to appear at the 2011 show.

Part of the Comic-Con International (Comic-Con) family of conventions, WonderCon is a three-day event that has experienced yearly growth both in size and stature since moving to San Francisco in 2003, culminating in welcoming over 39,500 attendees to the 2010 show. The 2011 event will be held April 1–3 at the Moscone Center South in the heart of San Francisco.

“Because of the caliber of guests, exhibitors, and programming, WonderCon has been a ‘must attend’ show on the convention calendar,” said David Glanzer, director of marketing and public relations for WonderCon. “The level of guests announced for our 25th anniversary certainly reflects that continuing practice.”

WonderCon offers attendees, professionals, and exhibitors the complete convention experience, with a giant exhibit hall, exclusive programming from the top comics publishers in the country, movie and television panels, anime, autographs, games, the masquerade, and portfolio review all under one roof, it’s easy to see why WonderCon has become one of the best conventions in the country.

For a complete rundown of the growing list of special guests at WonderCon, as well as future announcements, please visit www.comic-con.org/wc. The guests confirmed thus far for the 2011 event include:

Jason Aaron (writer, Scalped, Wolverine)

Jason Aaron is an Eisner and Harvey nominated comic book writer whose work includes the critically acclaimed crime series Scalped for Vertigo and celebrated stints on Black Panther, Ghost Rider, and Wolverine: Weapon X for Marvel. He currently writes Wolverine, Astonishing Spider-Man & Wolverine, and Punisher Max, all for Marvel. Jason lives in Kansas with his wife and two sons.

Sergio Aragonés (cartoonist, Groo, MAD magazine)

One of MAD magazine’s longest-running cartoonists (Al Jaffee holds the record) and the creator of that popular dim-witted barbarian Groo, Sergio Aragonés recently ventured into the popular world of The Simpsons, becoming a featured writer/artist in Bart Simpson Comics. A new book, MAD’s Greatest Artists: Sergio Aragonés: Five Decades of His Finest Works, celebrates Sergio’s long history with the humor magazine.

Berkeley Breathed (syndicated cartoonist, Bloom County, Opus)

Berkeley Breathed began drawing Bloom County, a political satire, for college newspapers in the early 1980s. Nationwide recognition came to Breathed with his creation of Opus, an insecure penguin who reflected the political conscience of America. When Bloom County ended, Breathed created Outland, which had a successful four-year run, after which Breathed started Opus, which ran until 2008. Bloom County Complete Library is currently being published by IDW.

Mark Evanier (writer, comics historian, Kirby: King of Comics)

Mark Evanier has been writing professionally since 1969, when he apprenticed with the legendary Jack Kirby and also began writing comic book scripts for Disney. Over the years, he has worked on preexisting characters including Superman, Blackhawk, The New Gods, Tarzan, Mickey Mouse, Bugs Bunny, Yogi Bear, and dozens of others. He’s also handled his own co-creations, The DNAgents, Crossfire, Boogeyman, Hollywood Superstars, and The Mighty Magnor, along with collaborating since 1983 with cartoonist Sergio Aragonés on Groo the Wanderer, for which he won a couple of the industry’s coveted Eisner Awards. He is the author of several collections of columns as well as MAD Art, a history of MAD magazine and Kirby: King of Comics, a book about his mentor that won both two prestigious Harvey awards and one more Eisner. He has received three Emmy nominations and an award from the Writers Guild of America for lifetime achievement in animation writing. Mark is currently writing two screenplays for a major studio and writing, producing, and voice-directing the third season of The Garfield Show, which is seen in more than 150 countries.

Adam Hughes (artist, Wonder Woman, Catwoman)

Born on Cinco de Mayo during the Summer of Love, in Riverside, NJ, Adam escaped to Atlanta, Georgia in the early ’90s, when such things were possible. Starting his comics career in 1987, Adam has drawn for DC Comics, Marvel Comics, Dark Horse Comics, Sideshow Collectibles, and many other companies. He has also done work for Lucasfilm, Warner Bros. Pictures, and Joss Whedon’s Mutant Enemy Productions.

Robert Kirkman (writer, The Walking Dead, Haunt)

Robert Kirkman is a New York Times bestselling author who maintains one prerogative in every undertaking: quality. It is Kirkman’s belief that good people who produce good writing and good ideas make comics people love. Kirkman was recently made partner at Image Comics and continues to enliven the industry with refreshing new characters. His bestselling series The Walking Dead has been adapted into a hit TV series by AMC, and his books are among the most popular on the iPhone and iPad’s ”Comics” app. Kirkman recently launched Skybound, an all-new imprint of Image Comics that provides a new generation of comic book creators with the opportunity to publish their original works.

Hope Larson (writer/artist, Mercury, Chiggers)

Hope Larson is the author of four graphic novels, including Mercury and Chiggers. Her short comics have been featured on the op-ed page of the New York Times and in several anthologies, notably Flight and Comic Book Tattoo. She’s currently hard at work on a graphic novel adaptation of Madeline L’Engle’s A Wrinkle in Time, which will be published in fall 2012 by Farrar, Straus and Giroux. Larson has been nominated for cartooning awards in the U.S., Canada, and Europe and is the recipient of a 2006 Ignatz Award and a 2007 Eisner Award.

Paul Levitz has been a comics fan (The Comic Reader, winner of two Best Fanzine Comic Art Fan Awards), editor (Batman), writer (Legion of Super-Heroes), and executive (38 years at DC, ending as president & publisher). He has received the Inkpot, Clampett Humanitarian, and ComicsPro Industry Appreciation Awards and serves on the board of the Comic Book Legal Defense Fund. His new book, 75 Years of DC Comics: The Art of Modern Mythmaking, has just been published by Taschen, and his recent comics writing appears in Legion of Super-Heroes and Adventure Comics, as well as collected editions.

Jeremy Love (writer/artist, Bayou)

Jeremy Love is an award-winning writer, illustrator, and animator. His critically acclaimed serialized graphic novel Bayou, from DC/Zuda, was nominated for an Eisner Award for Best Digital Comic and won five Glyph Awards. Making his debut over a decade ago, Love has also worked on creator-owned projects for Dark Horse (Fierce, Shadow Rock), on established properties such as G.I. Joe, Batman, and Fraggle Rock, and on various animated projects.

Francis Manapul (artist, The Flash, Superboy)

Francis Manapul is the current artist on The Flash. His previous work for DC Comics included books such as Adventure Comics, Superman/Batman, and The Legion of Super-Heroes. His work has appeared in various publications from the likes of Aspen Comics, Editions Delcourt, Top Cow Productions, and Devils Due, just to name a few. Francis is also a TV presenter on SyFy’s Beast Legends, in which he and a team of scientists and adventurers travel the globe in search of scientific data to create mythical beasts. Francis was born in Manila, Philippines, and currently calls Toronto, Canada his home.

Carla Speed McNeil (writer/artist, Finder)

Writer/artist Carla Speed McNeil is best known for her award-winning science fiction series Finder. McNeil self-published Finder starting in 1996 and continues the series today on the web, where she moved it in 2005. In 2009, Finder won the Eisner Award for Best Webcomic. The series is currently being reissued by Dark Horse Comics in a series of graphic novels. McNeil’s other work includes illustrating a story arc for Greg Rucka’s Queen & Country. In addition to her Eisner Award, McNeil is also the recipient of the Friends of Lulu Kim Yale Award for Best New Talent in 1997 and the Ignatz Award for Promising New Talent in 1998.

Terry Moore (writer/artist, Echo, Strangers in Paradise)

Terry Moore has been writing and drawing critically acclaimed comic books since 1993, beginning with his award-winning classic series Strangers in Paradise. Garnering numerous industry awards and published in 14 languages, Strangers in Paradise remains a fan favorite. Moore’s current ongoing series, Echo, has been widely acclaimed by both fans and professionals. Echo won the Harvey Award for best new series of 2009. Terry has recently enjoyed successful runs writing for Marvel’s Spiderman Loves Mary Jane and Runaways.

Ryan Ottley (artist, Invincible)

Ryan Ottley currently draws Invincible for Image Comics and has done so for the past seven years. Staying completely busy on a monthly book for that length of time doesn’t often allow for other work, but he finds time here and there for the occasional side project. On his list are Superman/Batman Annual #1 for DC and such other Image books as Haunt 1–5 and the one-shots Death Grub and Sea Bear and Grizzly Shark, which doubtfully could ever be topped by another project, so he is considering quitting comics entirely and living off of Grizzly Shark money for the rest of his days. He currently lives in Bountiful, Utah with his wife and son, who would also love the idea of him quitting comics so they could see him once in a while.

Joe Quesada wears many creative hats, as both an acclaimed writer/artist and the editor-in-chief of Marvel Comics. Joe also serves as chief creative officer for Marvel Entertainment. In this role, he is steward of such legendary characters as Spider-Man, X-Men, Incredible Hulk, and the Fantastic Four. Even with an entire publishing company to run, Quesada keeps his creative hand moving. During his tenure, he’s completed Daredevil: Father, a story dedicated to his father, and illustrated Spider-Man: One More Day, changing the popular web-slinging hero forever. He’s recently completed the bookend to One More Day, One Moment in Time.

Frank Quitely (artist, All Star Superman, Batman and Robin)

Frank Quitely spent the first three years of his career in the independently published anthology Electric Soup. He spent a further two years painting sci-fi strips for the popular UK anthology Judge Dredd Megazine. The next five years were mostly spent at DC, producing work for Paradox Press, Vertigo, DCU and WildStorm, including Flex Mentallo, Batman, JLA, and The Authority. After two years on New-X-Men at Marvel, he headed back to Vertigo for the creator-owned mini-series We3, followed by All Star Superman and Batman and Robin. He currently has several creator-owned projects in the pipeline.

Amy Reeder (artist, Madame Xanadu, Batwoman)

Amy Reeder is best known for her work on Vertigo’s Madame Xanadu, and she is currently drawing covers for Supergirl and interiors alongside J. H. Williams for DC Comics’ Batwoman series. Having gotten her start writing and drawing the graphic novel series Fool’s Gold for Tokyopop, Amy’s art is a fusion between Japanese and American comicking sensibilities. Amy was nominated for three Eisner Awards in 2009 for her work on Madame Xanadu: Best New Series, Best Artist, and Best Cover Artist.

Seth (cartoonist/designer, Palookaville, John Stanley Library)

Seth is the cartoonist behind the painfully infrequent comic book series Palookaville, which in 2010 ceased being a pamphlet and became an annual hardcover. His novels, which have been translated into eight languages, include It’s a Good Life If You Don’t Weaken, Wimbledon Green, and the serialized story George Sprott (1894-1975), which appeared in the New York Times Magazine in 25 installments and has been expanded as a standalone book. As a book designer, Seth has worked on a variety of projects, including The Complete Peanuts, The John Stanley Library, and the two-volume series on Canadian master cartoonist Doug Wright. As an illustrator, Seth has produced commercial works for virtually all of the major Canadian and American magazines. His work frequently appears inside and on the cover of the New Yorker. He lives in Guelph, Ontario with his wife and two cats and rarely leaves his basement.

Bill Sienkiewicz (artist, Elektra: Assassin, Stray Toasters)

Boleslav (William) Bill Felix Robert Sienkiewicz (pronounced sin-KEV-itch) is an Eisner-winning, Emmy-nominated artist best known for his innovative redefinition of comic and graphic novel illustration and storytelling from 1980 onward, most notably with Marvel Comic’s Elektra: Assassin and his acclaimed graphic novel Stray Toasters, earning him an international reputation and cult status across media industries. A classically trained painter, Sienkiewicz’s renderings incorporate abstract and expressionist influences and any combination of oil painting, acrylics, watercolor, mixed-media, collage, and even electrical wiring. His work has garnered numerous accolades, most notably a 2004 Eisner Award for DC Comics’ The Sandman: Endless Nights, and 1995 and 1996 Emmy Award nominations for production and character design on the PBS children’s TV series Where In the World Is Carmen Sandiego?

The popular writer/director of such films as Clerks, Mallrats, Chasing Amy, and Zack and Miri Make a Porno, Kevin Smith is back at WonderCon! In addition to his movie work, Smith has returned to comics with a pair of Batman miniseries: Batman: Cacophony, and Batman: Widening Gyre). Smith’s Q&A sessions always pack them in wherever he appears; look for another rollicking panel at WonderCon!

Best known as the co-creator of Swamp Thing, Human Target, Wolverine, and the New X-Men, Len Wein has been editor-in-chief of Marvel Comics, Disney Comics, and Top Cow Comics and was senior editor at DC Comics. He is noted for long runs writing almost every major character in the business. In TV, Len developed and story-edited the award-winning War Planets: Shadow Raiders, and has scripted more than 60 animated shows, including an Emmy Award for Batman: The Animated Series. In 2008, Len was inducted into the Will Eisner Comic Book Hall of Fame. Len currently writes DC Universe: Legacies, which celebrates DC’s 75th anniversary.

F. Paul Wilson (author, Repairman Jack series)

F. Paul Wilson is the award-winning, New York Times bestselling author of 40-plus books and over 100 short stories spanning horror, adventure, medical thrillers, science fiction, and virtually everything between. More than 9 million copies of his books are in print in the U.S., and his work has been translated into 24 languages. He also has written for the stage, screen, and interactive media. His most recent novels are Ground Zero, Jack: Secret Vengeance, and the latest Repairman Jack thriller, Fatal Error. He currently resides at the Jersey Shore; he can be found on the web at www.repairmanjack.com.

Marv Wolfman (writer/editor, Tomb of Dracula, New Teen Titans)

Marv Wolfman has created more characters that have gone on to television, animation, movies and toys than any other comics creator since Stan Lee. Marv is the writer-creator of Blade, the Vampire Hunter, Bullseye (the prime villain in the 2003 movie Daredevil), and the New Teen Titans, which was a runaway hit show on the Cartoon Network. Marv also writes novels; his adaptation of Superman Returns won the industry’s “Scribe” award. His nonfiction book Homeland, The Illustrated History of The State of Israel won the National Jewish Book Award among others.

About WonderCon:

WonderCon, one of the country’s best comics and popular arts conventions, is part of Comic-Con International (CCI), a nonprofit educational organization dedicated to creating awareness of, and appreciation for, comics and related popular art forms. The organization achieves its mission primarily through the presentation of conventions and events that celebrate the historic and ongoing contribution of comics to art and culture. In addition to San Francisco-based WonderCon each spring, CCI organizes San Diego Comic-Con each summer (the world’s largest comics convention of its kind) and San Francisco’s Alternative Press Expo (APE) each fall. On the web: WonderCon.org, Facebook.com/comiccon, Twitter.com/wondercon.

Norwalk, CT, September 15, 2010: DC Comics has revealed some of the top guests who will be on hand to meet and greet fans at the annual New York Comic Con (NYCC) which will take place October 8 – 10, 2010 at the Jacob K. Javits Center in New York City. Acclaimed writer J. Michael Straczynski will join DC executive talent including co-publishers Dan DiDio and Jim Lee as well as superstar writer and Chief Creative Officer of DC Entertainment Geoff Johns as Guests of Honor. Other all-star DC creators who will be participating in various panels and activities at NYCC include John Arcudi, Art Baltazar, Matthew Clark, Amanda Conner, Tony Daniel, Shane Davis, David Finch, Franco, Derek Fridolfs, Adam Hughes, JT Krul, Francis Manapul, Sean Murphy, Dustin Nguyen, Jimmy Palmiotti, Joe Prado, Ivan Reis, Nicola Scott, Peter Snejbjerg, Scott Snyder, Peter J. Tomasi and Freddie Williams II.

Officials at DC note that many of the panels featuring their creators will include announcements and other “behind-the-scenes” information about DC Comics, Vertigo and WildStorm comics and graphic novels. In addition, DC staff members will welcome thousands of fans to DC’s 3000 square foot booth centrally located on the convention floor which will feature talent signings, free giveaways and early peeks at the newest action figures, statues, busts and other amazing collectibles on display from DC Direct.

“We have worked closely with DC since our very first show and we are always eager and grateful to host the enormous talent that they bring to our show,” notes Lance Fensterman, Vice President for ReedPOP and Show Manager for both NYCC and NYAF. “NYCC is only one of a handful of conventions where DC has a significant booth presence and so we want to make their participation as beneficial as possible. DC represents the total convergence of comics, movies and books into the pop culture mainstream and this is what NYCC is all about. We look forward to providing ample opportunity for our thousands of fans to meet, greet and interact with the biggest and most famous artists, writers and creators in the world today.”

NYCC convention organizers note that movie and TV studio participation at NYCC is expected to be very strong this year, with announcements about guest appearances and previews coming very soon. Tickets for NYCC and NYAF may be purchased at www.nycomiccon.com. Other information about the shows, as well as news about ReedPOP, which also organizes Chicago Comic and Entertainment Expo (C2E2), is available at Lance Fensterman’s blog, www.mediumatlarge.net.

DAN DIDIO was named Co-Publisher of DC Comics with Jim Lee in February 2010. Prior to his new role, he served as the Senior VP-Executive Editor, DC Universe for DC Comics. Since 2003, he has spearheaded such bestselling titles as Identity Crisis, Infinite Crisis, 52, and Final Crisis. Prior to joining DC, Dan worked in television for CBS and ABC public relations and program development. His writing can also be seen in The Outsiders.

JIM LEE is Co-Publisher of DC Comics. Prior to his current post, Lee served as Editorial Director, where he oversaw WildStorm Studios and was also the artist for many of DC Comics’ bestselling comic books and graphic novels, including ALL STAR BATMAN AND ROBIN, THE BOY WONDER, BATMAN: HUSH, and SUPERMAN: FOR TOMORROW. He also serves as the Executive Creative Director for the DC Universe Online (DCUO) massively multiplayer action game from Sony Online Entertainment (SOE).

GEOFF JOHNS is the Chief Creative Officer for DC Entertainment as well as one of the most the most prolific and popular of contemporary comic book writers. He has written highly acclaimed stories starring Green Lantern, Superman, the Flash, Teen Titans, and the Justice Society of America, as well as the bestselling graphic novels BLACKEST NIGHT and INFINITE CRISIS. Johns has also written for various other media, including the acclaimed “Legion” episode of SMALLVILLE and the fourth season of ROBOT CHICKEN. He is writing the story of the DC Universe™ Online (DCUO) massively multiplayer action game from Sony Online Entertainment LLC (SOE) and co-producing the upcoming Green Lantern feature film.

J. MICHAEL STRACZYNSKI is the only comics writer in history to win the Eisner Award, the Hugo Award (twice), the Inkpot Lifetime Achievement Award, SFWA’s Ray Bradbury Award and be nominated for a British Academy Award for Screenwriting (for Changeling). As a comics writer he has written The Amazing Spider-Man, Superman, Wonder Woman and Thor, among others; as a writer for TV and film, his credits include Ninja Assassin, Babylon 5, Jeremiah and Twilight Zone. He’s worked with Clint Eastwood, Ron Howard, Steven Spielberg, Paul Greengrass and others. His current in-development credits include Forbidden Planet (for Warners), Shattered Union (for Disney/Bruckheimer), and Lensman (for Universal) More projects will be announced at NYCC. He never sleeps.

ABOUT REEDPOP: ReedPOP is a boutique group within Reed Exhibitions which is exclusively devoted to organizing events, launching and acquiring new shows, and partnering with premium brands in the pop culture arena. ReedPOP is dedicated to producing celebrations of popular culture throughout the world that transcend ordinary events by providing unique access and dynamic personal experiences for consumers and fans. The ReedPOP portfolio includes: New York Comic Con (NYCC), Chicago Comic and Entertainment Expo (C2E2), Penny Arcade Expo (PAX) East & West, Star Wars Celebration V, New York Anime Festival (NYAF), and UFC Fan Expo. The staff at ReedPOP is a fan based group of professionals producing shows for other fans, thus making them uniquely qualified to service those with whom they share a common passion. ReedPOP is focused on bringing its expertise and knowledge to world communities in North America, South America, Asia and Europe.

First public display of Archie and New Avengers covers, Dawn Perfume, lunch with Joe Quesada and a great donation from Ford Motor Company!

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: Los Angeles, CA (October 4, 2010) Hero Initiative, the non-profit organization that helps comic creators in need, will attend the New York Comic Con October 8th thru 10th at the Javits Center located at 655 West 34th Street in the heart of Manhattan.

Hero will be making its first public display of original Archie #600 and New Avengers #1 covers! Swing by the Hero Initiative booth, #333, to see these beauties up close and personal!

In addition, Black Phoenix Alchemy Lab (BPAL) will be selling the limited edition scents based on the groundbreaking comic book series Dawn by Joseph Michael Linsner. These four scents, Dawn: Maiden, Dawn: Mother, Dawn: Crone and Dawn: Cernunnos based on the Dawn characters will be available at the BPAL booth, #2851. Proceeds benefit Hero Initiative, so grab them while supplies last! You can also order online at:

http://www.blackphoenixalchemylab.com/dawn.html

Hero Initiative is proud to announce The Ford Motor Company will generously donate another $5000 to Hero at New York Comic Con, making its contribution $10,000 in total this year to Hero Initiative. With its recent release to customers and dealerships across the country, Ford will feature its all-new 2011 Fiesta at New York Comic Con throughout the weekend. Conference goers will have the opportunity to test drive the vehicle throughout the conference, as well as take part in Ford-related activities at the event. Convention goers will also have the opportunity to enter a raffle for the chance to win one of two copies of the final issue of Ex Machina signed by creator Brian K. Vaughn after participating in Ford activities.

And you cannot make your New York Comic Con experiences complete without having “Lunch with Joe Quesada!” One lucky fan with the high eBay bid will win lunch and an original sketchcard from Joe, so check out the auction now at: http://qurls.com?i=49467

The Hero Initiative is the first-ever federally chartered not-for-profit corporation dedicated strictly to helping comic book creators in need. Hero creates a financial safety net for yesterday’s creators who may need emergency medical aid, financial support for essentials of life, and an avenue back into paying work. It’s a chance for all of us to give back something to the people who have given us so much enjoyment.

Since its inception, The Hero Initiative has had the good fortune to grant over $400,000 to the comic book veterans who have paved the way for those in the industry today. For more information, visit www.heroinitiative.org or call 626-676-6354.

Paradise Comics hosts a special charity event to benefit the Hero Initiative. We are happy to announce that Dale Keown, Leonard Kirk, and Ken Lashley (art pictured above) will be signing copies of the Wolverine: Weapon X 100 Project Collection.

*JUST ADDED* Agnes Garbowska, Francis Manapul, Marcus To

In the tradition of the Ã¼ber-successful Ultimate Spider-Man #100 Project, the Hero Initiative pops its claws! All of Hero’s 100+ original covers to Marvel Comics’ Wolverine: Weapon X #1 are on display in this great book, with art by J. Scott Campbell, John Cassaday, Ken Lashley, Ron Garney, Dale Keown, John Romita Sr. and more!

Through special arrangement with Marvel Comics, there will be only one printing of this book; get it now so you don’t blow your chance!

We’ve poured through our various schedules and listings to pull together the listed appearances of our guests throughout the convention. This information now follows the guest’s bio. These listings may not reflect all of their potential appearances. Some guests may also appear at company booths in the Exhibit Hall and other locations as well.

The Special Guest List for this year’s 40th Anniversary of the convention includes:

10:30-11:30 DC Talent Search 1
Come learn what DC Comics looks for in artists and how to improve your chances of becoming a working professional! We’ll discuss the different needs of the DC Universe, Vertigo, WildStorm, Mad Magazine and Zuda. This extremely informative orientation session will explain how DC’s Talent Search works and provide numerous tips and tricks on how to improve your work and explore opportunities. In order to have your work reviewed, attendance at this orientation session is mandatory. (Please note: Not all attendees are guaranteed a one-on-one review.) Room 4

11:45-12:45 Superman: Two Worlds
Torn between New Krypton and Earth, The Man of Steel has only just begun his latest adventure. You’ve seen the stories. A new planet of Kryptonians. Scores of super-powered beings. The people behind Superman’s future are here to face the most trying times in his life. Meet the talented folks behind Superman as they give you a glimpse of what is in store for our favorite Super-family. Featuring Superman Group Editor Matt Idelson, Geoff Johns (Adventure Comics, Superman: Secret Origins), Greg Rucka (Action Comics), James Robinson (Superman), Sterling Gates (Supergirl), Renato Guedes (Superman), and more! Room 6DE

2:15-3:15 Spotlight on Geoff Johns
He is the mastermind behind the smash-hit, critically acclaimed Flash: Rebirth and DC’s most anticipated book of the year, Green Lantern: Blackest Night. Wondering what makes Geoff Johns tick? Don’t miss this panel hosted by Eddie Berganza, Group Editor-DCU, interviewing one of the most exciting talents in the DCU. Room 6DE

5:00 -6:00 JSA: The Great Society
DC’s legendary super-team enters a new era with top talent and explosive storylines in the second half of 2009! Get the inside scoop on everything JSA right here including info on the exciting spin-off title Magog and the main series Justice Society of America from the creative minds behind the franchise. Hosted by DC’s Senior Group Editor, Mike Carlin, with top talents Bill Willingham (JSA), Matt Sturges (JSA), Freddie Williams (Final Crisis Aftermath: Run), Amanda Conner (Power Girl), Jimmy Palmiotti (Power Girl) and more! Room 5AB

6:00 -7:00 Vertigo New Ongoing Series/Crime Line
It’s a new beginning for Vertigo with the launch of new ongoing titles such as The Unwritten, Greek Street & Sweet Tooth. In addition to these titles we will be launching the highly anticipated Vertigo Crime Line with some of the top talents in the industry. Hosted by Senior VP – Executive Editor, Vertigo, Karen Berger and Senior Editor Will Dennis, this panel is not to be missed, especially considering the talent present: Peter Gross (Unwritten), Jeff Lemire (Sweet Tooth, The Nobody), Jason Starr, Chris Gage, Gabriel Ba, Fabio Moon and others! Room 5AB

Friday, July 24th

10:30-11:30 Talent Search 2
Come learn what DC Comics looks for in artists and how to improve your chances of becoming a working professional! We’ll discuss the different needs of the DCUniverse, Vertigo, WildStorm, Mad Magazine and Zuda. This extremely informative orientation session will explain how DC’s Talent Search works and provide numerous tips and tricks on how to improve your work and explore opportunities. In order to have your work reviewed, attendance at this orientation session is mandatory. (Please note: Not all attendees are guaranteed a one-on-one review.) Room 4

11:00-12:00 Spotlight on Darick Robertson
Whether he’s illustrating Leatherface or reigniting super-teams like The Authority or launching videogame adaptations like Prototype, artist Darick Robertson has become synonymous with gritty, exhilarating artwork. Now’s your chance to hear the fan-favorite creator talk about his process and career alongside WildStorm Senior Editor Ben Abernathy. There’s no telling what these two might say! Room 4

12:30-1:30 Batman: New Dynamic
Now that the Battle for the Cowl has ended, what adventures lie ahead for the new Dark Knight? Join Group Editor Michael Marts, Paul Dini (Detective Comics), Dustin Nguyen (Detective Comics), Greg Rucka (Detective Comics), and more as they discuss the legend of Batman and what the future holds for the newest man behind the bat. Room 6DE

3:00-4:00 DC NATION
Calling all NATION recruits! Bring your friends and hear top talent discuss where the DC NATION is heading from 2009 and beyond. Sr. VP – Executive Editor Dan DiDio hosts this exciting discussion with Ian Sattler, James Robinson, Geoff Johns, Greg Rucka, and more! Join them for a VIP look into the most talked about stories and events of the summer! Room 6DE

4:30-5:30 Wednesday Comics
Wednesday Comics gives a fresh twist to a grand comics tradition by reinventing the classic newspaper comics section and filling it to the brim with today’s top talent and characters! Learn all you need to know about DC’s excitingly innovative weekly 12-issue series from the title’s mastermind, DCU Editorial Art Director Mark Chiarello, and an all-star list of panelists! Believe us; you’ve never seen a panel or a project like this! Room 5AB

10:30-11:30 DC Talent Search 3
Come learn what DC Comics looks for in artists and how to improve your chances of becoming a working professional! We’ll discuss the different needs of the DCUniverse, Vertigo, WildStorm, Mad Magazine and Zuda. This extremely informative orientation session will explain how DC’s Talent Search works and provide numerous tips and tricks on how to improve your work and explore opportunities. In order to have your work reviewed, attendance at this orientation session is mandatory. (Please note: Not all attendees are guaranteed a one-on-one review.) Room 4

11:30-12:30 Spotlight on Francis Manapul
The hot up-and-coming artist Francis Manapul takes the stage to discuss his kinetic art on one of the most anticipated projects of the year: Adventure Comics with Geoff Johns! Hosted by Group Editor Matt Idelson see what’s it like illustrating the return of Superboy. Come find out from one of the freshest artists in the biz! Room 4

2:15-3:15 Green Lantern: Blackest Night
The dead are rising in the DCU – who will survive when the Blank Lantern Corps attacks? This is your only chance to hear what’s coming up in Blackest Night, the most anticipated comic event of the year! Featuring all the key figures behind the biggest, coolest threat to the DCU in years! Hosted by Group Editor Eddie Berganza with Geoff Johns (Green Lantern), Pat Gleason (Green Lantern Corps) and others! Room 6QUAD

11:00-12:00 CMX: Bringing Manga to You!
Manga remains one of the hottest areas in literature and CMX, the manga imprint of DC Comics, is right in the thick of it. Join Director of Manga Asako Suzuki and Editor Jim Chadwick as they discuss the latest releases from one of the most diverse lines on the market today. We are excited to talk about upcoming new series and the ongoing series such books as Crayon Shinchan, Broken Blade, Fire Investigator Nanase, Ballad of a Shinigami, The Lapis Lazuli Crown, Emma, and much, much more! Room 4

12:00-1:00 Spotlight on Bill Willingham
Both a master storyteller and an incredible artist, Bill Willingham has created a huge following for his best-selling books. His credits range from the DCU’s Justice Society of America, Salvation Run and Robin- to the already- classic Vertigo titles Fables and Jack of Fables and the new House of Mystery. Hosted by Vertigo Group Editor, Shelly Bond with Fables co-horts Mark Buckingham and Steve Leialoha. Room 2

2:00-3:00 Sunday Conversation with Dan DiDio
As the con comes to a close, sit back and unwind as Dan DiDio and friends invite you to a relaxed Sunday afternoon comics discussion. Share your opinions and listen to others as some of comics’ biggest names talk about their love of all things comics. All are welcome, no RSVP required. Room 2

Visitors from across Ontario and around the world have the opportunity to experience the very best of pop culture first-hand at the upcoming 15th annual Fan Expo Canada. The return of the country’s largest combined event which includes The Canadian National Comic Book Expo, CNAnime, SFX Science Fiction Expo, Festival of Fear Horror Expo and GX Gaming Expo – the Canadian National Gaming Expo is the perfect family outing and offers something for all ages and interests!

The Comic Book Expo, CANADA’S BIGGEST COMIC BOOK EVENT has an amazing array of comic book superstar guests. Visitors to the Comic Book Expo will have the opportunity to meet many renowned artists and writers and participate in autograph and Q & A sessions with their favourite creators and industry experts alike.

The Comic Book Expo Guests include Featured Guests:

JOE QUESADA – Editor In Chief, MARVEL COMICS

MIKE DEODATO JR. – Artist, DARK AVENGERS

ETHAN VAN SCIVER – Artist, FLASH REBIRTH

STEVE MCNIVEN – Artist, WOLVERINE

IVAN REIS – Artist, THE BLACKEST NIGHT

TERRY DODSON – Artist, UNCANNY X-MEN

DAVID FINCH – Artist, ULTIMATUM

OLIVIER COIPEL – Artist, THOR

MATT FRACTION – Writer, UNCANNY X-MEN & INVINCIBLE IRON MAN

MARKO DJURDJEVIC – Cover artist, MARVEL COMICS

LEN WEIN – Legendary Creator, SWAMP THING & WOLVERINE

DARWYN COOKE – Writer/Artist, DC THE NEW FRONTIER, HUNTER

DALE EAGLESHAM – Artist, Upcoming FANTASTIC FOUR

BILL SIENKIEWICZ – Legendary Artist

STUART IMMONEN – Artist, ULTIMATE SPIDER-MAN, NEW AVENGERS

KATHRYN IMMONEN – Writer, RUNAWAYS

ALEX MALEEV – Artist, SPIDER-WOMAN

YANICK PAQUETTE – Artist, MARVEL

FRANCIS MANAPUL – Artist, SUPERMAN/BATMAN, ADVENTURE COMICS

C.B. CEBULSKI – Writer and Editor, MARVEL COMICS

Special Appearance by:

DOUG SNEYD – Legendary Playboy cartoonist

Plus a HUGE list of creators and studios will be appearing at the 2009 Comic Book Expo – click here and take a look!

PARADISE COMICS is happy to help celebrate the release of SUPERMAN/BATMAN #60
Written by Michael Green & Mike Johnson Art and cover by Francis Manapul

Rising star artist Francis Manapul joins Michael Green and Mike Johnson for a special 2-part story we could only call ‘Mash-Up’! When the going gets tough in the city of Gothamopolis, there’s only one thing to do: call in the Justice Titans to save the day! Wait, what? On sale May 20.

We are also hoping the latest and greatest stuff from Agnes Garbowska will be ready here’s a small sample

YOU, ME AND ZOMBIE stars Olive and her little Shih Tzu Otis. They wake up one morning to find their whole town over run with Zombies. The two of them want to try to find out what happened and want find a cure to make everyone all better. They set off on the adventure of a life time to find Olive’s father who is a scientist and can maybe help them. But the problem is Olive’s father has vanished and she has no idea where to find him.

The first release of You, Me, and Zombie will be issue 0. This issue takes place a few months after Olive and Otis discovered their town over run by zombies. They found a journal that holds clues to what might have caused everyone to get sick and turn into Zombies.